Sony could soon expand its premium headphone range with a lower-cost version of one of its most successful wireless models, according to new reports.

Leaked information suggests the company is developing the WH-1000XM4C, a model that retains much of the original WH-1000XM4’s design while being positioned below the current flagship WH-1000XM6.

If the reported European pricing is accurate, the headphones would sell for around A$445, making them considerably more affordable than Sony’s latest premium offering.

One of the biggest differences appears to be the design. Unlike the WH-1000XM5, which introduced a non-folding frame, the WH-1000XM4C is expected to return to the compact folding design that helped make the original XM4 popular with travellers and commuters. Sony only reintroduced folding hinges with the more recent WH-1000XM6.

The leaked specifications indicate the new headphones will be available in black, silver and lavender finishes.

Sony is also expected to retain many of the audio technologies found in the original model. These reportedly include active noise cancellation powered by the company’s QN1 processor, Hi-Res Audio support, Spatial Audio compatibility and touch-sensitive controls built into the earcups.

A product studio shot of a pair of Olive Gray Sony WH-1000XM6 over-ear headphones angled folded with the cups inside the headband. The headphones are floating against a white background.

Battery life is expected to be slightly lower than the original WH-1000XM4. Reports suggest the new model will deliver up to 34 hours of playback with noise cancellation disabled, or around 27 hours when active noise cancellation is switched on.

By comparison, the original headphones offered up to 38 hours without noise cancellation and approximately 30 hours with the feature enabled.

The reported strategy would allow Sony to offer premium sound quality and noise cancellation at a lower price while maintaining the WH-1000XM6 as its flagship model.

With wireless headphone prices continuing to rise across the industry, a more affordable option could appeal to buyers looking for flagship-level features without paying premium prices.

Sony has not confirmed the existence of the WH-1000XM4C, and neither the specifications nor launch timing have been officially announced. However, reports suggest the headphones could be unveiled in early September if the leak proves accurate.